Dark Finds Podcast

This week I'm joined by author Marc Harzman who has been described by ABC News as "One of America's leading connoisseurs of the bizarre." Marc has written books about UFOs, ghosts, Mars, Oliver Cromwell's embalmed head, weird things on eBay, sideshow performers, unorthodox messages from God, and more. We get into all that today, everything from the Phoenix lights incident to scrotum bags for sale on Ebay. So if you like the sound of that, buckle up for an hour of absolute bizarreness. Marc's website 👻My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysMark Hartsman is an author and writer fascinated by the bizarre and unusual.
His interest in weird history began with the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley's Believe It or Not.
Sideshow acts provided a platform for individuals with anomalies to find community and acceptance.
The internet has changed the landscape of sideshow acts and public perception of them.
Strange finds on eBay include bizarre items like bull scrotum bags and deer poop paperweights.
The Phoenix Lights incident remains one of the most compelling UFO sightings with thousands of witnesses.
Cultural context plays a significant role in shaping narratives around UFOs and extraterrestrial life.
Scientific inquiry into UFOs has gained traction in recent years, especially with figures like Avi Loeb.
The possibility of life on Mars and other celestial bodies continues to intrigue researchers and enthusiasts alike.
The ocean remains largely unexplored, potentially hiding unknown forms of life.KeywordsX-Files, UFOs, bizarre history, sideshow, strange finds, paranormal, extraterrestrial life, weird stories, cultural phenomena, Mark Hartsman

This week I'm joined by Nules, host of the Ireland Crime and Mysteries podcast. She was actually my first guest back in early 2024, so it's great to have her back on. Nules runs one of the best true crime podcasts out there: diving deep into solved and unsolved murders, vanishings, and mysteries that have left an unsettling chill at the heart of Ireland.Today, we get a real taste of all that. We talk about the rise in crime statistics, the impact of mental health on criminal behaviour, and how society is becoming increasingly desensitised to violence. We also dig into some specific cases, including the Michael Gaine and Irene White murders, exploring the complexities of these investigations and the ongoing issues of coercive control and contract killings.My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysPodcasting requires persistence and dedication.
Crime statistics in Ireland show a worrying trend.
Mental health issues are often linked to violent crimes.
Desensitization to violence is a growing concern.
Social media influences perceptions of crime.
Coercive control is a significant factor in domestic violence cases.
The Michael Gainey case highlights the complexities of murder investigations.
The Irene White murder remains unsolved with a mastermind at large.
Contract killings raise ethical and moral questions.
Understanding the psychology behind violent crimes is crucial.KeywordsIrish Crime, crime, mental health, Ireland, Irish true crime, social media, violence, coercive control, murder, crime statistics, true crime, Michael Gaine, Irene White Murder, contract killing

This week I'm joined by Mark McCabe, who shares his journey from being a pirate radio DJ at Pulse radio to finding massive success with his hit song Maniac 2000. We delve into the evolution of dance music, the impact technology has had on music, the ailing nightclub scene, and his epic performance at Electric Picnic 2025. My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysMark's performance at Electric Picnic was a magical experience.
He felt a sense of responsibility to engage the crowd during his sets.
The transition from vinyl to digital music changed the DJ landscape.
Maniac 2000 became a cultural phenomenon in Ireland.
Mark faced challenges with the success of Maniac, feeling unprepared for fame.
He learned to produce music after the success of Maniac.
The track has a nostalgic value for many, connecting to personal memories.
Mark's journey reflects the ups and downs of the music industry.
He emphasizes the importance of trusting the process in one's career.
Mark is grateful for the legacy of Maniac and its impact on audiences.  KeywordsMark McCabe, Electric Picnic, DJ, Maniac 2000, music industry, nostalgia, Irish music, dance music, music technology, live performance

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Crime Scene Investigator and host of Crime Scene Confidential Alina Burroughs. In her crime scene career, Alina worked thousands of cases, including several high-profile violent crimes, and is trained in blood stain pattern analysis, bullet trajectory, recovery of buried bodies and documentation of skeletal remains. In this episode Alina shares her unique insights into the world of true crime and forensic science. She discusses the vital role of empathy in her work, the emotional toll of investigating crime scenes, and the importance of mental health for those in the field. Alina reflects on memorable cases, the evolution of forensic technology, and the ethical considerations surrounding true crime media.  LinksAlina's Website My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysAlina Burroughs emphasizes the importance of empathy in crime scene investigation.
The emotional toll of working in crime scenes can be significant for investigators.
Crime scene investigators often deal with a variety of cases beyond just murder.
The Pulse nightclub shooting had a profound impact on Alina Burroughs.
Mental health is crucial for those working in high-stress environments like crime scenes.
True crime media often sensationalizes the criminal rather than focusing on the victims.
Forensic technology has evolved rapidly, improving the accuracy of investigations.
The importance of understanding the human element in crime and its impact on society.
Alina Burroughs aims to educate the public about crime and justice through her work.
The future of forensic science will continue to evolve with advancements in technology.Keywordstrue crime, crime scene investigation, empathy, forensic science, mental health, Alina Burroughs, crime, justice, technology, emotional impact

This week's episode is a first for me, where we try to solve a murder live on the show. I'm joined by American politician, Mike Gatto, who served in the California State Assembly from 2010 to 2016. Mike shares the harrowing story of his father's murder in 2013, exploring the complexities of the investigation and the impact on his family. Through a chronological narrative, Mike delves into the crime scene, the various theories surrounding the murder, and the emotional toll it has taken on him and his loved ones.  And believe me, there are some crazy theories here and all have holes in them. So buckle up for this one, put on your sleuth hat, and try to make sense of this with us. Comment your theories below. And remember, if you're liking the podcast please rate, follow and share with others LinksMike's Book 📚My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysMike Gatto's father was murdered in 2013, a shocking event that changed their family forever.
The book 'Noor by Necessity' aims to shed light on the experience of victims' families.
The crime scene showed no signs of forced entry, raising questions about the motive.
Witness accounts described a suspicious individual resembling an Eastern European hit man.
Multiple theories about the murder exist, but each has its flaws.
The emotional impact of the murder has strained family relationships.
Law enforcement's approach to the case has been criticized for its lack of progress.
The importance of community involvement in solving unsolved cases is highlighted.
Mike emphasizes the need to explore every lead, no matter how painful.
A reward of $50,000 is offered for information leading to an arrest.  Keywordsmurder, crime, investigation, family, justice, Los Angeles, true crime, unsolved, podcast, Mike Gatto, Hollywood, cold case, unsolved murder.

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Harold Schechter, acclaimed true crime author and historian, known for his deep dives into some of history's most notorious killers.Harold has written extensively on figures like H.H. Holmes, Albert Fish, the Bath School bomber, and other infamous criminals, blending meticulous historical research with gripping storytelling. In this episode, we explore the psychology of serial killers, delving into the origins of true crime, the psychological underpinnings of violence, and what society's fascination with crime reveals about us. We discuss the nature of psychopathy and the macabre crimes of Ed Gein.For anyone intrigued by the human mind, the history of crime and serial killer, you wont want to miss this one. LinksHarolds's books 📚My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  Takeaways

• True crime literature has roots dating back to the invention of the printing press.
• The fascination with true crime reflects a deep-seated human interest in violence and morality.
• True crime can serve as a cathartic outlet for our darker impulses.
• Human beings have an innate capacity for violence, as seen in both history and nature.
• The evolution of crime reflects societal changes and cultural conditions.
• Psychopathy may offer survival advantages in a lawless environment.
• Understanding serial killers requires a multifaceted approach to their psychology.
• The decline in serial killers may be linked to advancements in forensic science.
• Cultural reflections of crime evolve with societal fears and anxieties.
• Freud's insights into the human psyche remain relevant in understanding criminal behavior.

 Keywordstrue crime, Harold Schechter, psychology, serial killers, Ed Gein, violence, catharsis, psychopathology, cultural reflections, crime literature, mass murderers,

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by bestselling author Gregory A. Freeman, a master of historical true crime and untold wartime stories.We'll be diving into his incredible book, The Forgotten 500, which tells the gripping story of over 500 allied airmen shot down over Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia during World War II. With the help of local villagers and General  Mihailović's Chetnik forces, these airmen were hidden from German troops and rescued in one of the largest airlift operations behind enemy lines—a story of courage, ingenuity, and ordinary people doing extraordinary things.Gregory also shares insights into his research, the untold heroism of the people involved, and the dramatic real-life events that make this story both haunting and inspiring.LinksGregory's WebsiteMy new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysFinding untold stories is a challenge.
Darker aspects of history reveal human emotions.
Researching historical narratives requires factual accuracy.
Survivor stories often highlight acts of kindness.
The political landscape during WWII was complex.
Personal accounts can change perceptions of history.
War often brings out both the worst and best in humanity.
Storytelling can be a cathartic experience for veterans.
Historical narratives can influence modern relationships.
The search for new stories continues despite challenges.Keywordshistory, storytelling, WWII, forgotten stories, survival, Mihailović, Tito, personal narratives, historical writing, empathy

Today, I'm joined by Dr. Katherine Ramsland, a prolific author and professor of forensic psychology. She specializes in extreme offenders and has authored numerous books on the subjects of serial killers, crime scene investigation, forensic science, and mass murder In this episode, Katherine discusses the complexities of serial killers, focusing on Dennis Rader, the BTK killer. Through jailhouse visits, telephone calls, and written correspondence, Katherine worked with Rader himself to analyze the layers of his psyche. In 2016, she authored the book, Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer. We also delve into the rise of true crime culture, misconceptions surrounding psychopathy, the differences between forensic and criminal psychology, and the role of humiliation in violent behavior.  LinksDr. Ramsland's books 📚My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖 TakeawaysCatherine Ramsland has written 73 books, showcasing her extensive knowledge.
She emphasizes the importance of taking time before entering college to find one's path.
Forensic psychology is a growing field that gained popularity after high-profile cases like O.J. Simpson.
The BTK killer, Dennis Rader, is an outlier among serial killers, challenging common profiles.
Psychopathy is a spectrum, and not all psychopaths are criminals.
Humiliation plays a significant role in the motivations of many serial killers.
Ramsland believes in preparing for opportunities that may arise unexpectedly.
The complexity of human behavior makes it difficult to categorize serial killers into neat boxes.
Ramsland's work includes both fiction and non-fiction, blending her expertise with storytelling.
She is currently working on a crime fiction series and a documentary about an accomplice to a serial killer.KeywordsKeywordsCatherine Ramsland, forensic psychology, true crime, BTK killer, psychopathy, criminal psychology, Dennis Rader, serial killers, psychology, philosophy, psychopaths, psychopathy

On today's episode, I sit down with Scott DeLuzio, an army veteran who served in the Connecticut Army National Guard as an infantryman between 2005-2011 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.Scott discusses the challenges veterans face, including mental health issues and the search for purpose after service. He highlights the importance of community support, the complexities of combat experiences, and the role of humor in coping with trauma.During his deployment, tragically, Scott became a Gold Star Brother when his younger brother, Sergeant Steven DeLuzio was killed in action while they were both deployed only miles apart from each other in Afghanistan. Scott's experiences in combat and the loss of his brother have fueled his passion for veteran advocacy and honoring the legacy of those who served.After returning home, Scott struggled with PTSD, grief, and the transition to civilian life. Determined to address the mental health challenges facing veterans, he launched the Drive On Podcast, now in its fifth year with over 450 episodes. LinksScott's Website My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  TakeawaysThe Drive On podcast aims to help military veterans transition to civilian life.
Many veterans feel isolated and struggle to find purpose after service.
Mental health issues can vary greatly among veterans, even in similar situations.
Traditional therapies may not work for everyone; alternative methods should be explored.
Community activities can provide healing and support for veterans.
Finding purpose in life is a continuous journey for many individuals.
The stigma around mental health is slowly changing in the military community.
Dark humor is often used as a coping mechanism in the military.
Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for processing experiences.
The bond between service members can provide crucial support during and after service. It's common for brothers to serve together in the military.
Deployment brings both pride and anxiety for families.
Life on base can be surprisingly luxurious compared to combat zones.
Training prepares soldiers for many scenarios, but not all.
Grief can manifest in unexpected ways during combat.
Returning home after loss is a complex emotional journey.
Storytelling helps preserve the legacy of lost loved ones.
The media's portrayal of war often misses the reality.
Finding a personal way to grieve is essential for healing.
Living life fully honors the memory of those we've lost. Keywordsmilitary veterans, mental health, podcast, transition, combat experience, community support, humor, patriotism, storytelling, personal experiences, military, deployment, family, grief, legacy, combat, Afghanistan, brotherhood, war stories, personal journey

Today, I'm joined by Vennie Kocsis, the author of Cult Child, who shares her harrowing experiences growing up in the cult, Sam Fife The Move. Vennie discusses her early childhood, the transformation of her mother into a cult member, and the psychological trauma that ensued. She reflects on the cult's beliefs, the abuse she and other children endured, and the lasting impact of these experiences on her life. The conversation also touches on the intersection of cults and government, the ongoing legacy of Sam Fife's cult, and the importance of healing and awareness for survivors. We delve into the predatory tactics used by cults, the impact of shame and trauma on identity, and the importance of therapy in recovery.LinksVennie's Books 📖My new thriller How It Falls Apart out now 🧨Dark Finds Podcast IG 👀 Patreon 🙌🏼Dark Finds IG 💀Dark Finds YouTube Channel 🎬 Dark Finds Book 📖  Takeaways

• Vennie's memoir provides a raw insight into cult life.
• The transformation of her mother into a cult member was gradual.
• Children in cults often experience severe psychological trauma.
• Disassociation is a common coping mechanism for survivors.
• Cults often use fear and authority to control members.
• The cult's beliefs were rooted in extreme evangelical Calvinism.
• Survivors often struggle with the lasting effects of their upbringing.
• Cults can manipulate and exploit vulnerable individuals.
• The government has historically overlooked cult abuses.
• Healing from such trauma requires awareness and support. Cults use predatory tactics to manipulate individuals.
• Shame and trauma can significantly impact one's identity.
• Healing requires self-discovery and accountability.
• Therapy is crucial for recovery from trauma.
• Society often overlooks the importance of mental health.
• Spirituality can play a role in personal healing.
• Understanding trauma helps in navigating life post-cult.
• Self-awareness is key to breaking free from shame.
• Therapists should offer more accessible rates for clients.
• The journey of healing is ongoing and requires support.

 Keywords: cult, memoir, trauma, abuse, Sam Fife, Vennie Kocsis, childhood, disassociation, survivor stories, psychological impact, cults, trauma, shame, spirituality, healing, identity, therapy, self-discovery, mental health, recovery